Lions Club of Torquay
Victoria, Australia, District 201V2
we serve... service to the community... learning new skills... building lasting friendships...

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Lions Awareness Week
Did You Know This!

Did you know that Torquay Lions were instrumental in establishing the Elephant Walk Play Ground, The Deep Creek Walking Track, The first Medical Centre in Torquay and the recent installation of nesting boxes in Taylor Park?

We don't just cook sausages!

Click on the
Activities & Projects tab to see what else Torquay Lions get up to.

Torquay Lions aim to make a difference in our community.

Do you like to help to make a difference as well?

Come and talk to us

Lions Take Part in the Taylor Park Centenary Celebrations

On Saturday 24 February Torquay Lions Club took part in the Centenary Celebrations of Torquay's Taylor Park. Community groups were invited by the Friends of Taylor Park to set up information booths to showcase their groups activities. Torquay Lions Club recently donated funds to the FOTP for nesting boxes to to established in the park.

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Torquay Lions Club Lose Two Stalwarts

Jean Young OAM, wife of Lion Alan Young, died on the 16/11/2023 at the age of 90. Jean was a Lions Lady, and her life of service to the community is an inspiration to us all. Jean was awarded an Order of Australia Medal in January 2023 for Services to the Community. Jean’s funeral was held at St Lukes Anglican Church Torquay on 8/12/2023.

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Alan Young died on the 4/01/2024 at the age of 93. Alan was a Lion for 48 years, was Club President in 1992 and was Torquay Lion of the Year in 1990, 1994 and 1996. Alan was awarded an Alan Holding Award in 1998 and a Melvin Jones Fellowship in 2001. Alan received a 40 year Monarch Letter signed by the International President in 2015. His funeral will be held at St Lukes Anglican Church Torquay on 19/12/2023.

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Torquay Lions Have a Busy Weekend

On Friday night two Torquay Lions sold tickets for our usual Meat Tray Raffle at the Torquay Hotel. Then on Saturday, at short notice, we held a Sausage Sizzle at Bunnings in North Torquay, while another team of Lions were also selling Lions Christmas Cakes and Puddings at the Farmer’s Market. Finally, on a beautiful sparkling Sunday, at Torquay's Cowrie Market we held another Sausage Sizzle while a second team of Lions ran our Children's Train. All told, we raised over $4,300 for the weekend. Every dollar of which will go back to the community. It was a great result! Thanks to everyone who bought a ticket, or a sausage, or a cake, or had a ride on the train. We also managed to talk Santa into coming to the market to spread some Christmas cheer . 🎅

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Youth of the Year Competition

Three Surf Coast Secondary College students competed in the public speaking phase of a comprehensive contest for Torquay Lions Club’s Youth of the Year for 2023 at the August Dinner Meeting.
After a COVID three-year hiatus, Torquay’s Youth of the Year competition made a welcome return.
The Lions Youth of the Year has a proud history in encouraging and fostering leadership skills in Australian students approaching the end of their high school years.
By emphasising qualities such as contribution to the community and school, public speaking, academic skills, sporting and cultural involvement, YOTY aims to bring forth the next generation of outstanding young Australians.
This year’s Torquay final was between Surf Coast Secondary College Year 11 students Jetaime Liberatore, Annabel Dean and Tobias Kingston-Brown.
Annabel Dean took off both the top prize of YOTY and the Public Speaking Award, closely pursued by Jetaime Liberatore.
Fellow Year 11 student Tobias Kingston-Brown was praised by the judges for his performance on the night.
The judging was held at the Lions Village Community Centre in Kooringa Place Torquay.
Annabel Dean will go forward to the V2 (Southwest Victoria) District competition, and if successful, on to the national competition.

Bellbrae Cemetery Working Bee

Torquay Lions held another working bee at the Bellbrae Cemetery on Tuesday 15th August. The club regularly helps maintain the Cemetery grounds by mowing, weeding and raking the gumtree litter. The club is paid by the cemetery trust for its efforts, with the funds going into the Administration Account. This helps subsidise the costs of running the club.

Pictured are John Bell, Allen Osman and Richard Kelly.

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Torquay Lions Club Change Over

After a successful year as President of Torquay Lions Club, Lion Colin Bellis has passed the role to Lion Brian Keane.
“During 2022 – 2023, Torquay Lions have done a wonderful job in raising
a memorable $96,616 to be gifted to many local, national and international causes,” Lion Colin said.

According to the outgoing President, success of the year was based on the strong support of club members and our local community.

“Monies distributed this year have helped a considerable number of groups or individuals achieve a better way of life for themselves or others.
“Some of our larger donations went to supporting organisations determined to make the world a better place,” Lion Colin said.

The greatest amount raised was through Lion Peter McMahon who organised the Good Friday Appeal in Torquay enabling us to pass $41,848 to the Royal Children’s Hospital,” Lion Colin declared.
“Various Lions Foundations, created to assist communities in need, received $13,177 from Torquay Lions, and $10,000 is being given this year to Foundation 61’s new House of Hope to support women confronting life-controlling issues.
“Last week, (22/6) Lions presented a donation of $12,500 to
Art of the Minds which has evolved into a powerful community conversation centred on mental wellbeing,” Lion Colin concluded.
Preparing for the year ahead, incoming President, Lion Brian Keane, declared his vision is to make a difference in the Community, and the Club’s purpose is to see a need and do something about it.
We will do this by Strengthening Lions and our Club locally, through developing New models for growth by looking for new service opportunities, reaching out for new members of a younger generation and building partnerships with businesses and other not for profit organisations,” he said.
“The club will align goals, governance and operational support by ensuring we continue to have strong financial management, concise safety protocols, robust maintenance programs and a culture of looking after each other.
“I am looking forward to a year full of activity, interest and fun. I know that I will have the support of our Members, Friends of Lions and our partners,” Lion Brian acknowledged.

Art of the Minds Donation

Last week, Lions presented a donation of $12,500 to Art of the Minds at the Lions Village.
Art of The Minds has evolved into a powerful community conversation centred on mental wellbeing.
The local charity showcases the brilliant talents of Surf Coast and regional artists, individuals and groups in a festival week full of community-based activities each year.
Founder and President of Art of the Minds, Jules Haddock, is proud of her project and was most grateful for Torquay Lions contribution to the Mental Health Week festival.
“The project forges connections with all community members from young to old”, she said.
“Through creative art-based conversations, ranging from theatre, song, visual arts, music, yoga, sound, sport events with a twist, and an exciting education event, this festival gives our community the right to talk about mental illness, and the responsibility to support one another.
“Art of the Minds aims to activate, educate and engage the Surf Coast and wider community to creatively manage mental health and wellbeing.

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Wildlife Nesting Boxes Installed in Torquay's Taylor Park

Torquay Lions teamed up with the Friends of Taylor Park and the Torquay Men's Shed to build wildlife nesting boxes in Taylor Park. Lions provided the funds to purchase the materials, the Men's Shed built the boxes and GORCAPA funded their installation. Great things happen when local organisations work together.

Surf Coast Trek 13 May 2023

Lions help Kids! Torquay Lions ran a BBQ for the 2023 Surf Coast Trek. Over 800 took part in the 26km or 40km fundraising walk from Anglesea or Aireys Inlet to Torquay. Each receiving a medal as they crossed the line at a sunny Elephant Walk. Money raised is for Kids+ and the Give Where You Live Foundation. There were a lot ready for a sausage after their trek.

Great Ocean & Otway Classic Ride 29 April

Great Ocean & Otway Classic Ride was held with around 3,000 riders completing the 60 km, 145km, and 204km rides. Torquay Lions were there assisting O2 Events with marshalling from 6 am as each of the races started from Torquay. We also ran a BBQ at the finish line at Point Danger. It was very busy, with around 900 sausages cooked and served as the riders returned. We raised $2,200 which will go back into the local community. Lion Allen Osman can be seen on the winner’s podium after hours of cooking, doing a Shoey!

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April 27 Dinner Meeting

Guest speaker at our April Dinner Meeting was Richard Riordan, State Member for Polwarth, in his capacity as President of Parliament Lions Club. Richard spoke of his background, his involvement with Lions and some of the issues facing our local community. It was fascinating to learn that his stay in Russia as an exchange student was a life changing experience which helped form his views on life, politics and service to the community. What an interesting life he’s led. Torquay Lions President Colin Bellis presented Parliament Lions President Richard Riordan with a Torquay Lions bannerette.

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ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Torquay

Torquay Lions were at Point Danger to help with traffic, directions and crowd control. Our Torquay Lions President Colin Bellis laid a wreath on behalf of our club. It was a superb morning; clear and crisp, without wind or rain! Police estimated that there were around 10,000 at Point Danger, and it was pleasing to see lots of children. As we know, Point Danger is an ideal place for the Dawn Service, but our secret is out. The Channel Nine Today Show were there, with weatherman Tim Davies doing the weather report every half an hour, with glorious shots of the Point, the Front Beach and the RSL Service and 2 Up at the Torquay Bowls Club. Tim interviewed Torquay RSL President Bob Brackin, Past President Bob Tyler and Secretary Daryll Topp.

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Never see a need without doing something about it

Torquay Lion Brian Keane is on a quest. Lion Brian follows the Lions motto of “we serve”, but as Chair of MacKillop Family Services, Chair Keane follows the Mary MacKillop motto of “Never see a need without doing something about it.” Either way, Brian wants to help others. MacKillop Family Services was established in 1997. But its history dates to the 1800s and was founded on a deep commitment to caring for the most marginalised children, young people and families in our community. Its mission is inspired by Mary MacKillop (Sisters of St Joseph), Catherine McAuley (Sisters of Mercy) and Edmund Rice (Christian Brothers). Next week, Brian leaves for Ireland with four others from MacKillop Family Services to investigate and understand how these groups began helping children who are orphaned, destitute or neglected, and helping families in need of care and support, and how this is relevant to providing services in Australia today.
Pictured are MacKillop CEO Robyn Miller with MacKillop’s Aboriginal Service Development Director, Esmai Manahan and Chair of MacKillop Family Services Board, Brian Keane.

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Torquay Lions Raise $41,382 for 2023 Good Friday Appeal

Torquay Lions and their many local helpers raised $41,382 dollars for the Royal Children’s Hospital 2023 Good Friday Appeal.
The local appeal shattered last year’s record of $13,000.
“We not only achieved our target, which initially was $20,000, but we finished the day with $41,382 for this year’s Appeal,” Regional Co-ordinator, Lion Peter McMahon, enthused.
An elated McMahon declared community generosity, small projects by children, a Lions bowls day and many other donations has led to the new record.
“More than tripling last year’s figure almost leaves me speechless,” McMahon stated.

“Volunteer highway collectors from Deakin University, Torquay Lions Club, with help from Grovedale Fire Brigade and various other volunteers, all helped us achieve the $41,382”.
“I thank all who supported the appeal so generously.”
According to McMahon, the Good Friday Appeal resonates with many local families who have had some contact or contacts with the Royal Children’s Hospital over the years.
“Almost every family has been touched as the Children’s Hospital has helped so many youngsters,” McMahon stated.
He said he expected a few more donations would be forthcoming to add to Torquay’s figure.
‘The Lions Club, which donated $11,000 raised at their Billy Ryan charity bowls day, promised a few more hundred dollars would be directed to the Appeal from money raised at a small online auction for a gymnasium membership voucher,” he concluded.

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Photograph: Torquay Lion Peter Mc Mahon, Co-ordinator of the Torquay Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, hands over his final collection of cash to Armaguard for banking. Torquay raised $41,382 for the Appeal.

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Billy Ryan Torquay Lions Charity Bowls Day

Torquay Lions raised $11,000 for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal at yesterday’s Billy Ryan Torquay Lions Charity Bowls Day. All Lions were on deck, and there were 110 bowlers from Torquay Bowls Club, Anglesea Bowls, OceanOcean Grove Bowls and Leopold Bowls. We ended up with a winning team with cash prizes awarded. In the weeks up to the event, Lions collected donations from just over 90 local businesses. We received cash donations from our long-term major supporter Champion Blinds and our new supporter Surfside Dental. In total we collected over $18,000 in cash donations, goods and services. All these donations were used as prizes for 5 raffles, and a silent auction. The bowlers all had a great day, and the $11,000 is going to a wonderful cause. Billy Ryan was a Lion and a Bowler, and well loved in Torquay. He passed away in July last year, and the Bowls Charity Day is named after him. His wife, Pam, was there to present the winning bowlers with their prizes. Also there supporting us was councillor Rose Hodge.

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Torquay Lions Assist With Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

Twenty Torquay Lions Club members assisted the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race on 28 and 29 January. Lions members acted as roadside marshals as the races travelled through Torquay. Saturday was a scorcher for the Women's Race and Sunday was windy and cold for the Men's Race, typical Surf Coast weather. However it was rewarding to be involved in such an iconic local event.

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A Day Out at Adventure Park

Torquay Lions treated four local children to a day out at Adventure Park on 24 January. Their planned trip to the Lions Licola Wilderness Village was unfortunately postponed, so a day out at Adventure Park was organised in compensation.

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Torquay Lions Train at Anglesea for Australia Day

Torquay Lions Club members Bob Brownlee and Allen Osman took the Torquay Lions Train to Anglesea for the Anglesea Lions Club Breakfast on Australia Day yesterday. Children just love riding in the train.😀

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Local Torquay Lions Recognised.

Mr. John McCarthy and Mrs. Jean Young were awarded the Order of Australia today. John is a member of the Torquay RSL and is a member of the Lions Club of Torquay. He has volunteered for a range of Lions projects over many years. He was awarded the Alan J Holding award in 2006, one of the highest awards in Lions. Jean is the wife of Lion Alan Young. Jean was recognised for her work at St Luke’s Anglican Church, as well as Feed Me Surf Coast, Torquay Red Cross and many other local community service organisations. Jean is also featured in Surf Coast Times. CONGRATULATIONS.

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Torquay Lions Begin Raising Funds For The RCH Good Friday Appeal

Too often we read of the need for hospitals in Victoria to raise funds to help them operate effectively in years to come.
According to the Regional Manager for the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Good Friday Appeal, Torquay Lion Peter McMahon, the serious shortage of funds has generated interest locally in beginning to raise funds now for the Appeal.
“Last year’s Good Friday Appeal in Torquay, with strong support from the Torquay Lions Club, raised $13,000 locally in a relatively short campaign,” he said.
“For the Good Friday Appeal this year, between now and Good Friday 2023, we believe we can raise close to $20,000.
“The dearth of funds for research and equipment for the RCH is understandable in this year of fires and floods where communities have been supporting those in distress with physical help, equipment and funds from generous donors.
“Between now and Good Friday 2023, we will have tin shakers out and about in shopping centres around Torquay, caravan parks and wherever we think we can raise donations.

“We are building teams of volunteers from Torquay Lions Club, Torquay RSL members, and other community groups who have already leapt into action. They have raised more than $5000 already,” Mr McMahon reported.
According to Mr McMahon, donating funds for the Good Friday Appeal, resonates with many families who have had some contact or contacts with the Royal Children’s Hospital over the years.
“Almost every family has been touched in some way or other by the Children’s Hospital which has helped so many youngsters,” Mr McMahon stated.
“To put in a dollar or two to help the hospital with research, care and rehabilitation comes very easily for most donors.
“I recognise that times have not been so good for some people over the past few years, but it is so often the ones who can spare the least that are the most generous.
“This year, because people are so familiar with QR codes and paying for services with their phones or cards, we have organised a QR code which leads to Torquay’s Good Friday Appeal virtual tin for donors,” Mr McMahon explained.

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Photograph Caption: Torquay Lion Peter Mc Mahon, Co-ordinator of the Lions Club Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, celebrates with volunteer, Jan Harnath. the Club’s success in raising $13000 last Good Friday Appeal (2022).

Torquay Lions Clean Up Surf Beach After New Year's Eve

Torquay Lions had a good turn up today at 6am - and spent a couple of hours cleaning up the mess left by New Year’s revellers from the surf beach to Point Danger. Thanks to those from the community who joined in too - especially the kids who turned up specifically to help. Thanks guys! Again this year, the most disappointing aspect was the amount of smashed glass. It really isn’t cool. Should glass be banned?

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Compassion Leads the Way in Student Peace Posters

Illustrating their concept of ‘Lead With Compassion’, local students have had their art works in the 2022 Lions Lions International Peace Poster Competition displayed in venues around Torquay.
Since the initial competition in 1988, more than 6 million youth in schools and youth groups have enthusiastically applied their creative skills to express individual visions of peace in their colourful posters.
People are invited to visit the students’ displays in the Surf Coast Library, the old Bendigo Bank shopfront in Gilbert Street and the old Toy Shop shopfront near IGA.
The posters will be on display during library hours until early November and in the shopfronts all-day,
The Lions International Peace Poster Competition has been gaining popularity in Lions Clubs throughout the world.
Each year more than 600,000 young people from many countries participate in the Contest.
Creating peace posters gives children everywhere the chance to express their visions of peace and inspire the world through art and creativity.
The Lions International Peace Poster Contest is one of many Lions Clubs International Youth Programs that aim to provide opportunities for self-development, education, contribution and achievement for young people.

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Photograph (L to R) Bellbrae PS art teacher, Clare Williams, Grade 5 student, Pippa Hynes, Natalie Martin (with Harry), and Lion Neil Roche, with Pippa’s winning entry in the Torquay Lions Club Peace poster competition, judged by Natalie Martin

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Photograph (L to R) Bellbrae PS art teacher, Clare Williams, Grade 5 student, Rex Kadera, Natalie Martin (with Harry), and Lion Neil Roche, with Rex’s runner-up entry in the Torquay Lions Club Peace poster competition, judged by Natalie Martin.

Lap the Map for Diabetes

World Diabetes Day is held on the 14th November and is fast approaching. Torquay Lions Club has joined with other Lions Clubs across Australia on a mission to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed.

Torquay Lions are encouraging locals and visitors to join them, at 11.00 am at the Lions Sundial on Sunday 13 November to walk or run to Point Danger and back as part of the Lions Clubs Australia ‘Lap the Map’ event.

Registration for the walk is a
$5 donation.(Children are free) Registration will be from 10.30 am at the Lions Sundial. Come and join the walk and help us raise awareness.

All donations received will go to the Lions Australia Diabetes Foundation for diabetes awareness, prevention and research.

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Photograph: From left to right, Lion Neil Roche, Surf Coast Trail Runner, Dave Harrisson, and ‘Map the Map’ Torquay organiser, Lion Ross Yapp, plan the 5km walk at the Lions Sundial at Fisherman's Beach Torquay.

Cowrie Market 16 October 2022
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Another Cowrie Market was held last Sunday on the Elephant Walk in Torquay. After the deluge on Thursday and Friday everyone was holding their breath that the market would go ahead. As it turned out the weather on Sunday was lovely and the ground had dried out sufficiently. The crowds were back and the Club were busy cooking and selling BBQ'ed sausages and taking children for rides in the Lions Train. Woolworths in Central Torquay generously donated 20 packets of sausages which boosted the day's fundraising. The BBQ raised $1800 and the Train raised another $770. Thanks to all the Lions Members and Friends of Lions who worked so hard all day to make the Market such a success.

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Lions Celebrate 75 Years In Australia

The first club in Australia was chartered on September 29th, 1947, in Lismore 75 years ago. Our Lions Club of Torquay was chartered in June 1969. We have completed several major projects as well as lots of small jobs, serving our local community for over 53 years.
*The Sundial was completed in 1996. It represents traditional dreaming stories.
*The Lions Playground at Elephant Walk, known popularly as the Pirates Park, is well known and loved by locals of all ages. It was a project of Lions and the Torquay Public Reserves Committee with funding from the Victorian Government and was opened in December 1998.
*Land was purchased in 1999 for the Lions Retirement Village and the first residents moved in March 2001.
*The Getjawil Garden was opened in March 2022 and was a joint project with Surf Coast Shire with funding and support from Energy Australia and Barwon Water.
Torquay Lions are also well known for the Peace Poster competition with Primary Schools, the Youth of the Year competition with High School students, and Camp Licola for disadvantaged children. Our annual Bowl Charity Day raises over $7,000 for different causes (recently the CFA and last year, the SES). We also work at Cowrie Markets and at Bunnings with our famous sausage sizzles, as well as pub raffles, selling Lions Christmas Cakes, and recently online duck races! For over 20 years, we have been taking kids (and some “big kids”) on our Lions train. We raise over $50,000 per annum which goes back into the community. Including our 5 year $50,000 commitment to Foundation 61 and the Youth Pod built in conjunction with the Shire to support young people in our community.
If you are interested in helping serve your local community, please contact us via Messenger.

Lions Gather at Kithbrooke Country Club for their September Dinner Meeting
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Lions gathered at Kithbrooke Country Club for their September Dinner Meeting, two days before the AFL Grand Final. The dinner had a Footy Theme and a Footy Quiz was held during dinner to get everyone in the mood. President Colin Bellis presented service awards to Phillip Newson and Russell Hannan. He then inducted new Lion Catherine Rowe. Our guest speaker was Mervyn Keane. He was a Richmond Premiership player in 1973, 1974, and 1980. Named in the Richmond team of the century and inducted into the Richmond Hall of Fame in 2005. After retiring as a player, he’s been active as a coach and recruiter. Merv gave us an account of his playing career with Richmond and also his recruiting and assistant coaching duties at Essendon. As well as his triumphs in football, he told us of tragedy in his life, and his new literary endeavours. A truly inspiring man.

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Past District Governor Tom Blair visits Torquay Lions.
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Tom Blair, representing Lions District 201V2 was a surprise visitor to our July dinner meeting last night. He presented the International President's PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL to our Immediate Past President Lion Neil Roche.
Tom read from the letter sent by International President Douglas Alexander that “this award is an expression of our appreciation for your dedicated service to those in need. Your hard work and compassion serve as an example to the Lions, your community, and the world around you.” Tom also said, “this award is presented to Lion Neil Roche who exemplifies the qualities laid out in the International President’s letter.”

Celebration of a Life Well Lived
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With the passing of Billy Ryan, a moving service was held at St Therese Church on Tuesday 12 July, with Torquay Lions forming an honour guard as his casket left the church.

Vale Billy Ryan
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Billy Ryan joined the Lions Club of Torquay in April 2003, and has given over 19 years of service. He was the club’s Tail Twister, a task which involves spinning and twisting a yarn, and Billy excelled at this. In 2013, he was awarded a Melvin Jones Fellowship, one of the highest forms of recognition of service to the community within Lions. He was Club President 2006 – 07.
Billy passed away peacefully, on July 1, 2022 at the Epworth Hospital, Geelong. He was born on May 27, 1937, in Melbourne Victoria. He is survived by Pam, his wife and his children, Kelly, Paula, Angela, Matthew, Drew and Janine.
The funeral will be early next week at St. Therese Church.

Lions District V2 Skin Check Van Completes Visit to Torquay
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The District V2 Lions' Skin Check and Awareness team who worked at Torquay on 1st and 2nd July, came from various Lions Clubs in Victoria. They are Mobile Unit driver and equipment support person, Rob Eyton of Lara Lions Club, Julianne Clift from Warrnambool, Susan Eyton from Lara, V2 Past District Governor, Trevor Hirth, and Unit Coordinator, Wendy Hellebrand from Inverleigh.
The Lions mobile skin check unit cost $460,000 to purchase and set up for skin checks and awareness training. As well, several thousands of dollars of specialised equipment was added to ensure accuracy of the checks.

Lions Free Skin Check Van Comes To Torquay

Torquay Lions Club President, Colin Bellis, is concerned at the number of referrals to GPs from skin checks over the past two days (1,2July) and over past months in Victorian regional towns.
“When I visited the Lions Skin Check and Awareness Mobile Unit on its first day of operation in Torquay, a number of people had already been advised to visit their GP to have a thorough follow up” he stated.
“Torquay’s analysed statistics are not yet available, but we are concerned that since the Unit has been in operation in various towns in regional Victoria, 3,489 checks have been done and from those checks 1,483 referrals to GPs have been necessary.
“Our Lions Mobile Unit is hard-pressed to meet the need in regional Victoria, but we are aiming to bring the mobile unit back to Torquay as soon as we are able,” Lion Colin said.
“There is a long waiting list of Lions Clubs ahead of us in the queue, but we will press our need as hard as we can.”
The van was at Wurdi Baierr Stadium, Torquay on Friday, July 1st and Saturday, July 2nd.
Locals who had made appointments, were checked by fully trained, certificated and professionally supervised volunteers.
Lion Colin declared that the Lions team had pointed out that many people told them it was a wonderful initiative of Lions.
“The first free skin check seems to be the secret to informing people with valuable and timely data about skin care and self-checking techniques,” he said.
“It is well-known Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world.
“Lions Clubs in Victoria and Southern NSW are working hard to reduce that level and its impact on families, but more free checks are necessary here in Torquay”, Lion Colin concluded.
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Colin Large from Jan Juc chats with Torquay Lions Club President Colin Bellis, while waiting for his free skin check

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News
Torquay Lions Being Better Together Is Better For Community
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New President of Torquay Lions Club, Lion Colin Bellis declared his theme of ‘Better Together’ will ensure local Lions will serve our community better, strengthen the Club, and unearth new ways to raise funds to help those in need. Outgoing President, Lion Neil Roche, proudly announced at the dinner that the Torquay Lions had distributed just over $54,300 to local, national and international causes during the past year. President Neil also announced this year’s Lion of the Year winner: Tony Smith.
Lions Vice District Governor Elect, Michelle Challis, formally installed the team at the changeover dinner. Lions in the executive team supporting President Colin Bellis this year are Brian Keane, Leadership Chair; Neil Roche, Service Chair; Ken Farrow, Secretary; Deb Law, Treasurer; and Bill Ferguson, Membership Chair.
VDG Michelle Challis presented a 30 year service award to Lion Peter Thomas OAM. Michelle also inducted new member, Lion Ross Yapp, welcome Ross.
We were joined by Cr. Rose Hodge, as well as Michael Reed, Jan Emmett and Ben Featherston from Torquay Rotary Club.
Torquay Lions are keen to develop our membership base. We would love to see anyone looking for local involvement with a purpose to try their hand serving the community with us. Most people who try out working with Lions, join us for the satisfaction they receive serving others. Anyone interested in finding out more about Torquay Lions should send an email via the Contact Page or ring Bill Ferguson on 0402 121 559 to learn about what Lions do.

Torquay Lions Deliver Firewood to Local Lady
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Following a request from a local lady for assistance in supplying some firewood, a group of Torquay Lions loaded and delivered a Ute load on Saturday afternoon (11/6). Thank you to John Bell for donating the wood, Brian Keane for the loan of his Ute and Bob Brownlee, Ross Yapp and Ken Farrow for loading and unloading the firewood.

Torquay Lions Farewell Retiring Longstanding Members
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Torquay Lions recently farewelled five retiring longstanding members at their May Dinner Meeting. It was a theme night, with a “Footy Panel” to discuss the "ins and outs". The five Lions who are retiring have contributed a combined 104 years of service to the Torquay Community - Thank You.

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New Member Inducted into Torquay Lions Club
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Torquay Lions met at the Lions Village to induct Gordon Clarence as a new member at their May Dinner Meeting recently. The club warmly welcomes Gordon and Faye and hope they have a long and rewarding relationship with Lions.

Great Ocean Road Classic Bike Ride
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On Saturday 30th April Torquay Lions were out in force assisting with the 2022 Great Ocean Road Bike Ride. Ten Torquay Lions were up early to help marshal participants ride safely through Torquay's streets in the early morning light.
Another 12 Lions then provided a welcome sausage sizzle for the participants as they finished their ride at Torquay's Elephant Walk.
As well as providing great service to the riders, Torquay Lions also earned some valuable income for the Club, that will all be donated to worthy causes in the community.

Lions Bowls Day Raises $7500 for Torquay VICSES Unit
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Despite being ‘off’ and ‘on’ this year, the Torquay Lions Charity Bowls Day raised $7500 for Torquay’s VICSES unit.
The Bowls Day had been scheduled for January 2022 but had been postponed because of pandemic restrictions. It went ahead last week (22/4).
According to Lions Club president, Neil Roche, generous bowlers and sponsors enabled the Lions to present $7500 to the unit for much-needed items not provided by the government or through grants.
“The weather was perfect for the day’s bowls on Torquay Bowls Club’s two greens with 120 bowlers vying for $700 prize money.
“Raffles and silent auctions were the main fund raisers on the day,” Mr Roche pointed out.
“The last Bowls Day we organised raised funds for Torquay and Bellbrae Fire Brigades”.
Once again, the Lions Bowls Day competition was strongly supported by Champion Blinds, a well-known local business which has supported the Day in recent years.
According to Mr Roche, the Champion Blinds sponsorship enabled the Lions to cover all costs for the day and supplement cash prizes paid to the winners.
Champion Blinds owner, Craig Smith, said his support for the Lions Charity Day was good for business, but that was not the prime reason he donated to the event.
“Torquay Lions do a great job in our community,” Craig Smith stated.
“They help out in so many ways, not only raising funds for worthy projects, but also assisting people needing help locally, nationally and internationally”.
Torquay Lions were determined to provide the local VICSES unit with the $7500 as soon as possible, noting that the unit had a busy year so far, including road rescue call outs.

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Photographs
Top
: Lion Bill Ferguson, delighted VICSES Torquay unit members Mark Heaysman and Aaron McKercher, and Lion Brian Keane during the Lions Charity Bowls Day which raised $7500 for the VICSES Torquay unit.
Bottom: Torquay Lions Club Charity Bowls Day raised $7500 thanks to the generous support of bowlers and sponsors of the day.

Torquay Lions and RSL Smash $10K Good Friday Appeal Target
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Good Friday Appeal Coordinator, Lion Peter McMahon, and his team of volunteers smashed the $10,000 target he had set for Torquay Lions to raise this year.
“Our local community was so generous,” McMahon said”.
“We not only achieved our target, but Torquay Lions and Torquay RSL members finished the day with $ 13,100 for this year’s Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal,” McMahon said.
An elated McMahon pointed out that $came to the Appeal through the Lions Club Good Friday Appeal’s virtual tin.
“This was the first year we added QR codes as a means of accepting donations from those who did not have cash,” he said.
“The virtual tin recorded 52 donations totalling $2,720, placing us within the top 15 in the State listings.

“Last year, we raised $6,500,” declared McMahon.
“Doubling that figure almost leaves me speechless,” McMahon enthused.

“Volunteer collectors from Deakin University, Torquay Lions Club, and the Torquay RSL, with help from Grovedale Fire Brigade and some other volunteers, all helped us achieve the $13,100”.
“I thank all who supported the appeal so generously.”
According to McMahon, the Good Friday Appeal resonates with many local families who have had some contact or contacts with the Royal Children’s Hospital over the years.
“Almost every family has been touched as the Children’s Hospital has helped so many youngsters,” McMahon stated.
“ We are retaining the virtual tin for another ? weeks to enable any late donors to still contribute,” McMahon explained.

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“The QR Code, shown here, will still accept gifts from those used to paying by card or phone.

Photograph: Torquay Lion Peter Mc Mahon, Co-ordinator of the Lions Club Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal celebrates with volunteer, Jan Harnath. the Club’s success in raising $13,100 last week(15/4).

Getjawil Garden Official Opening
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Torquay Lions were involved in the the Getjawil Garden since its inception in early 2020, working closely with the Quay Community Association. Lions won a grant from Energy Australia and together with a grant from Barwon Water as well as Council funding, the project began.
Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Corrina Eccles performed a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony to commemorate the completion of the garden. The formalities were hosted by Surf Coast Shire Council CEO Robyn Seymour, Deputy Mayor Liz Pattison and Cr Kate Gazzard.
The Getjawil Garden is on the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung People. We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land, and pay respects to their elders, past, present and emerging.
The Yarning Circle and indigenous Edible Garden provides our community with a permanent educational and cultural place to learn more about our rich local Aboriginal history and to hear stories from the Wadawurrung People. Getjawil means “many” in Wadawurrung, and it is a place where many can meet.
Check it out! It is in Nautical Drive, between Onshore Drive and Beachley Lane.

Torquay Lions Support Surf Coast Trek
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Torquay Lions were at work recently helping the Surf Coast Trek event by providing a sausage sizzle for the hungry participants at the end of their walk. The Surf Coast Trek is a 26 km or 40 km fundraising walk from Anglesea or Aireys Inlet to Torquay to raise funds for Kids Plus Foundation and Give Where You Live Foundation. Visit their FB page @Surfcoasttrek. KRock were also there supporting this fundraiser.

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Torquay Tin Shakers Chase $10,000
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For the Royal Children’s’ Hospital Good Friday Appeal this year, Torquay’s organiser is aiming to raise $10,000 from the local community.
“Over the past few years, the total raised for the Good Friday Appeal each year has risen to reaching more than $6000 last year,” declared Torquay Co-ordinator Peter McMahon.
“Between now and Good Friday, we will have tin shakers out and about in shopping centres around Torquay, caravan parks and wherever we think we can raise donations.
“ So far, we have gathered collectors from Deakin University, Torquay Lions Club and the Torquay RSL and all are keen to help us achieve our dream target of $10,000, McMahon said.
According to McMahon, raising funds through the Good Friday Appeal, resonates with many families who have had some contact or contacts with the Royal Children’s Hospital over the years.
“Almost every family has been touched in some way the Children’s Hospital has helped so many youngsters,” McMahon stated.
“To put in a dollar or two to help the hospital with research, care and rehabilitation comes quite readily with most donors.
“I recognise that times have not been so good for some people during the recent pandemic, but it is so often the ones who can spare the least that are the most generous.
“ This year, because people are become so used to QR codes and paying for services with their phones or cards, we have organised a QR code which leads to Torquay’s Good Friday Appeal virtual tin for donors,” McMahon explained.
“The QR Code, shown here, will accept gifts from those used to paying by card or phone.

“Try it out,” McMahon suggested.
Aiming to raise $10,000 is not an easy task. Anyone who would like to help raise funds should contact Peter McMahon on 0411 112 047.

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Torquay Coordinator for the Good Friday Appeal for the Royal Children’s Hospital, Peter McMahon, St Therese Primary School student Sam Burke (11) and Torquay Lion Deb Law prepare for busy times raising $10,000 for the appeal.

Working Bee at Bellbrae Cemetary

On Tuesday 8 March eight Torquay Lions spent the afternoon carrying out garden maintenance at the Bellbrae Cemetary. Some members mowed and whipper snippered around the graves while others raked up fallen bark and leaves from the native gum trees. The Cemetary was looking a picture by the time they had finished. The Lions Club carry out regular garden maintenance at the Cemetery for the Bellbrae Cemetary Trust.

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Lions Allen Osman and Tony Smith prepare to slash some weeds.
Lower Photograph
Torquay Lions take a well earned rest following the finish of their working bee.

Lions Help in Clean Up Australia

Sunday March 6th was Lions Awareness Day. To celebrate, Torquay Lions took part in the Clean Up Australia campaign. We met at Cosy Corner at 8 am for a foreshore clean-up. Eight Lions braved the wind and drizzle to pick up rubbish, lots of cigarette butts, band aids, bottle tops, plastic ties, face masks, a child’s scooter and so on.

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Otway Odyssey Mountain Bike Race
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Torquay Lions travelled to Forrest again for the 2022 Otway Odyssey mountain bike race which was held on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 February. Three Lions members helped with marshalling on each of the 2 days of the event.

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Lions Window Display

Torquay Lions have been given permission to set up a window display in the old Bendigo Bank building in Gilbert Street in Torquay. The display highlights the activities the club is involved in.

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Torquay Lions Clean Up after Foreshore Celebrations
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The Torquay Lions 2022 New Year’s early morning clean-up of the Torquay Foreshore left beaches ready for visitors before 8.00 AM despite taking longer this year because of the attitudes of a few welcoming in the New Year.
Local Lions President Neil Roche said his club members were greatly surprised at the mass of rubbish left on the foreshore and beach from the Torquay Surf life Saving Club to Zeally Bay Road and Point Danger.

“The scene which greeted us this morning was horrible,” said President Neil.
“Cans, bottles, cartons, clothing, used condoms, broken glass and even a supermarket trolley were strewed along Torquay’s foreshore.
The amount of rubbish and broken glass took the Lions far longer to remove than in recent years.
“It was back to the bad old days before lighting and fencing had a beneficial effect on crowd attitudes and actions,” Lion President Neil declared.
“It was pleasing to see early morning walkers doing their bit in removing some rubbish from the lawns, as we checked the beaches, lawns and bushes,” he said.
Torquay Lions Club has cleaned the foreshore and surrounds for several years.
They start at 6.00 am as the sun rises and usually have the job done for beachgoers by 7.00 to 7.30 am.
“This year it took us longer because of the amount of rubbish and broken glass left on the foreshore, Voss’s car park and Point Danger,” President Neil commented.
The Lions left their collected rubbish in 20 or more bags alongside GORCAPA bins which were cleared as the Lions finish their task.
“We don’t want visitors to Torquay to experience a dirty and dangerous foreshore and beaches, which leaves a bad impression of our delightful beachfront and environs,” President Neil stated.
He also thanked his team of Lions who fronted the task so early after New Year’s Eve.
“Unfortunately,” he declared over a coffee at Third Wave Kiosk after the work was done, “Glass is our biggest enemy. It is difficult to spot in the sand and grassy areas, tedious to remove and always concerns us that we might miss some shards which can cause severe gashes in feet”.

Lions Donate Christmas Cakes to Torquay Food Aid
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Torquay Food Aid will make things a little brighter at Christmas for their clients with specially packed hampers loaded with donated goods.
Once again, Torquay Lions Club has provided their famous Lions Christmas Cakes to go into hampers. Here, Lion President Neil Roche (right) hands over cartons of cakes to Torquay Food Aid’s President Michael Buckley and volunteer Sally Bowen.
The Lions cakes are available in Gilbert Street during the week, the Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and at Bunnings Torquay.

Lions Duck Race 1 Results
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The Lions Duck Race for this year has been run and won.

Thanks to everyone who "adopted" a duck and helped The Lions Club of Torquay raise nearly $2000 which will all be used to support the community
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There is a video of the final on our Facebook page.

https://www.facebook.com/lionstorquay/

The winners were:

1st Duck number 10

2nd Duck number 38

3rd Duck number 148

We would like to thank Bunnings, IGA and Torquay Books for their generous donation of prizes for the event.

We will be in touch with the winners soon to arrange the delivery of your prizes.

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Lions Duck Races Are on Again
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Lions Club President Neil Roche said today the success of Torquay’s inaugural duck racing season in 2020, has led to a bigger event this year.

“Our Club is aiming for 300 ducks (the little yellow type that float) to race off in heats, on 11 December 2021,” he said. 
“The exact venue and time will be announced on the day, subject to weather and tides.  The event will go live to our club Facebook page, @lionstorquay, yes, we do have one).”
Lion Neil invited Surf Coast residents, and anyone else, to ‘adopt’ a duck, for $10.00 each duck.
“If all ducks are adopted for race day, and thanks to our sponsors donating prizes to the value of $500, the Lions will raise $3,000 to put back into the community,” he said.
“Tickets are available through this Lions’ Club website, just click on this
Link We suggest you get in quickly before they are all adopted, as happened last year.
“You can also catch us selling in Gilbert Street, or at the Farmers Market during November,” Lion Neil pointed out.
Lion Neil assured the community that no ducks (or Lions) will be injured in this event; no plastic ducks will be lost to our beautiful oceans and waterways; and he is very confident none will fly away!
“It’s been a difficult year for many, including for the Lions to get together and fundraise.  So, the idea of a bit of fun, and the ability to financially support our local community, is something to which the club is looking forward.”

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Four years old Harriet, helped by dad, Steven Reaper, checks the floatability of the Lions Club’s little yellow ducks in preparation for the Beached Duck Races to be held on 11 December at a Torquay location being kept under wraps at this time.

Moonah Woodlands Working Bee
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Torquay Lions Club fundraising activities have ceased because of COVID restrictions, but its members have moved to lift their community service activities.
The Club’s emphasis this month has switched from fundraising to wood gathering and collecting old plastic plant guards abandoned in the Moonah Woodlands at the east end of The Esplanade.
Club President Neil Roche has care of the environment as one of his projects for this year.
“I believe caring for our fragile environment is critical today to ensure it’s OK for future generations,” he said.
“Liaising with Surf Coast Shire officers, we offered to help clean up the Moonah Woodlands, collecting long abandoned stakes and plastic left lying about in this wonderful native reservation.
“Our environment project has become also a recycling project as the wooden stakes and some of the plastic guards will be recycled for use in future plantings,” Lion Neil advised.
In their morning spent in the Woodlands, the Torquay Lions collected hundreds of old stakes and numerous bags of disintegrating plastic.

Photograph:
Volunteers (from left) Lions Bill Ferguson, Gayle Roche, Lion Peter McMahon, and Club President Neil Roche gather stakes and plastic from the bush.

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The Lions Analemmatic Sundial Rejuvenated
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Working hand in hand with the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA), Torquay Lions Club gave their analemmatic sundial a 25-year rejuvenation. GORCAPA removed weeds, cleared congested plants and shrubs and guided the Lions on how best to rejuvenate the sundial’s surrounds with seedlings provided by the Authority. The chilly, windy morning did not deter the Lions from their tasks. Here, Lion Brian Keane and Terena Lane plant and water in seedlings with their fellow Lions

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Torquay Lions Club President Neil Roche and wife Gail, plant seedlings at the Lions’ popular analemmatic sundial undergoing a 25-year rejuvenation.

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
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It’s great to be back! Torquay lions (from left) Robert Grubb, Tom Harding, Terena Lane and President Neil Roche with handfuls of freshly sizzled sausages for Bunnings’s customers last week (15/08). To replenish their community funds, the Lions seek all opportunities to raise monies for disbursement to needy persons and organisations in Torquay.

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Customer Daryl Collings, waits patiently for his sausage and onions as Torquay Lions argue over who has the best-cooked product and the right to serve him. Lions (from left) Robert Grubb, Tom Harding, Terena Lane and Neil Roche mix work and pleasure as they go about raising funds for the Australian Lions Foundation (ALF) flood disaster relief. The club donated $500 from their community fundraising to the ALF.

Torquay Lions Gift Lions Comfort Koalas To Police

Torquay Lions Club recently presented 12 Lions Comfort Koalas to Victoria Police members at the local station.
Police and other organisations use the
Lions Comfort Koalas to assist young children caught up in stressful situations.
During the past 35 Years with the support of Lions clubs throughout Victoria, and now nationally, Lions Crimewatch has distributed over 53,000
Lions Comfort Koalas.
Torquay Lions President Neil Roche, pointed out local Lions had been part of “Lions Operation
Comfort Koalas” for some years.
“The Koalas are handed out to kids at motor vehicle accident sites, at courts, at house and bush fires, in domestic violence homes, hospitals, children’s cancer units and on myriad occasions where children might be distressed,” Lion Neil shared.
“With Lions clubs ongoing support of “Lions Operation
Comfort Koalas”, jointly we continue to supply bears to Police, SES, CFA and others where children might become anxious and stressed,” he said.
Distributing Comfort Koalas is only one way the Torquay Lions help support people in our local community.

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Torquay Lions President Neil Roche (right) and Leadership Chairman Lion Colin Bellis handover Teddy Bears to Sergeant Peter Christo at Torquay police station

New Lions Leadership Team Installed

The annual Changeover Dinner of the Torquay Lions Club was held at the Torquay Lions Village recently (24/6) and a new executive team was installed for the next 12 months.
Torquay Lions’ Zone Chairman Les Cropley, formally installed the new team at the Changeover Dinner.
Past President Bill was proud to announce at the dinner that the Torquay Lions had distributed just on $35,000 to local, national and international causes during the past year.
“Lions worked hard to raise those funds for distribution despite the COVID restrictions,” he said.
“More importantly, however, the money raised from the community all went back to various communities in one form or another,” he emphasised.
Incoming President Neil Roche pointed out to his new executive team that their year’s activities had already begun, and they would gather quickly to cross-pollinate any new ideas to ensure another successful year.
Lions in the Executive Team supporting the President this year are Colin Bellis, Leadership Team; Ken Farrow, Secretary; and Brian Keane, Treasurer.
“Like many other service organisations, Torquay Lions are an ageing group, and although we have a few younger members, we need more people between 25 and 60 to try their hand serving the community,” Lion Neil pointed out.
“Most people who try out working with Lions, join us for the satisfaction they receive serving others,” he concluded.

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At its recent Changeover Dinner (24/7), Torquay Lions Club’s new President Neil Roche, looks to the year ahead while Lions Zone Chairman Les Cropley listens attentively.

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Torquay’s coveted Lion of the Year award was presented to Lion Peter McMahon by the outgoing President Bill Ferguson for his considerable achievements during the past 12 months.

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At Torquay Lions Club Changeover Dinner, Lion Terena Lane, a relatively new member of Torquay Lions, received a new award – the Rising Star Award - from outgoing President, Bill Ferguson, for her outstanding efforts during the past year.

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