By BARRY BLAIR
SOME 25 enthusiastic charter members have formed the new Uralla Lions Club.
A privilege and a pleasure was how Lion Isabel Strutt described her duty as MC of Uralla Lions Club charter dinner attended by more than 100 people on Saturday.
Proposing the toast to Lions International, Uralla Shire mayor, Michael Pearce said he was honoured to do so, and particularly at the inaugural charter night of Uralla Lions Club.
Immediate Past District Governor (PDG) Lion Deyann McDonnell said the concept for a Lions Club at Uralla began with a vision.
“That vision was shared with a number of active Lions including PDG Lion Christine Woolnough, Lions Richard Edkins, and Brenda Shepherd,” she said.
“None-the-least was the enthusiasm displayed by Uralla moteliers, Lions Eric and Kathy Steadman.”
In his acceptance speech, Charter President, Lion Eric Steadman expressed his sincere gratitude at becoming a member of the newly chartered Uralla Lions Club.
“It is a distinct honour to accept the club charter on behalf of members,” Mr Steadman said.
“We serve to guide our community and it is my wish that this club becomes a progressive force in the community.
“Fellowship and personal satisfaction are already the hallmark of the club.
“My pledge to members is that they will have my full cooperation.”
A special part of the evening was the presentation of the original Uralla Lions Club charter from 1958. Witnessing the historic event was charter member from 1958, Leo Blanch and wife Judy, from Wollun.
Lions International takes a family-approach to club membership so that both parents may become members along with young adult family members living in the same household.
Ms McConnell said the inclusivity of the family approach enables a family to bring a broad range of skills and experience.
“With such an approach, Uralla Lions Club has already raised sufficient funds to contribute to the community,” she said.
Uralla community organisations to already receive donations include CanAssist, Friends of McMaugh Gardens, Uralla Hospital Auxiliary, and Uralla Red Cross.
