History making milestone for Lions First regional SA club celebrates 60th anniversary

The first regionally based Lions Club in South Australia celebrated in style at the weekend when the Lions Club of Mount Gambier marked its 60th anniversary.

Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC headlined the guest list at the celebration dinner at the Mount Gambier Community RSL on Saturday night, which also included the sole surviving charter member Eric Roughana AM and 1972 Miss Personality Julie-Anne Whitehead.

Civic leaders, MPs and Lions Club members made up the 130-strong crowd that not only celebrated the six decade milestone but also individual milestones for some long standing members and the handing out of donations to three community groups.

Mr Roughana, who chaired the committee that organised the anniversary celebrations, was presented with a 60-year service chevron and distinguished service award, while Australian Lions Foundation medals recognising 50 years’ service were presented to Allan Dowdell OAM and Robin Conboy OAM.

An updated 28-page booklet detailing the club’s history and activities was also released on the night.

The three community organisations that received grants totalling more than $13,500, included Riding for the Disabled, which will use its $4200 grant to purchase a machine to level the composite sand and fibre surface at its indoor arena on Sunnybrae Road, while Boandik Lodge will use $4700 to purchase two sleeper chairs for use as night beds for family members.

The Mount Gambier Hospital will use its $4700 allocation to purchase two mobile shower commodes.

Riding for the Disabled’s Natalie Zwar said they were grateful for what is now a 22 year association with Lions – a relationship fostered initially by Des Lattin. “Ever since then there has been a multitude of projects, volunteer work, money and other support and we are extremely grateful,” Ms Zwar said. “Because of that, we have the best RDA centre in Australia.”

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