The 2025/26 Yarrawonga Lions Club board: (Back) Don McPhee, Andrew Toms, Denis Griffiths, Gus Sanders, Linda Rate, Joan Tufvesson and Jo-Anne Talbot.(Front) Debbie Van Corler OAM, Peter Ornsby and Jock McDonald.
Photo by
Les_Garbutt
Yarrawonga Lions Club has celebrated 60 years with an anniversary dinner on Saturday, July 5 at ClubMulwala with members and guests spending the night with fellowship, fun and games.
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The new Board of Directors was installed with a twist using cricket terminology by District Governor elect Paul Shortis.
The Board to steer the club in the upcoming year is: President - Peter Ornsby, Secretary - Debbie Van Corler OAM, Treasurer - Jock McDonald, 1 st Vice President - Linda Rate, 2 nd Vice President - Jo-Anne Talbot, Membership Chairperson - Don McPhee, Directors - Joan Tufvesson and Denis Griffiths. Lion Tamer - Andrew Toms and Tail Twister - Gus Sanders.
Outgoing president Don McPhee acknowledged the hardworking members over the past 12 months, stating that “our club may be small in numbers (28), but we work well above our weight in achieving clubs fund raising goal”.
Passing of power from outgoing President Don McPhee (right) to incoming President Peter Ornsby.
The club’s projects over the past year were reflected on including the inaugural Dachie Cup acknowledging Margie Wickham for bringing the idea to the club and thanking Diane Richardson for her hard work.
“We installed new seating around Chinaman’s Island foreshore in conjunction with the Moira Shire so thanks again Diane for the idea and bringing it to fruition,” Don said.
“Other events on the calendar included the annual Wool Show (Jock’s pet project) and tennis tournament caterings.
“There were many other catering jobs, schools and a wedding breakfast.
“Our main fundraising activities, Khub and Bunnings, continue be a very steady income stream. Thank you to our community group partners at the weekly Khub for their work and dedication.
“Our major catering job, annual Hot Rod Show’ n Shine, in conjunction with the Rotary Club saw 50 dozen eggs cooked. This is another major contribution to our revenue, along with Xmas Cake sales. Thank you, Denis and helpers.
“The club continues to conduct JPS (Junior Public Speaking) yearly in July, with the support of local schools.
“Our club also made a major donation of $23,000 for two Oxygen Humidifiers for the new Yarrawonga operating theatre complex, which is soon to open.
“The club again organised the Lions Skin Cancer Van to visit in March, which again proved to be an outstanding success, with 153 clients being screened over two days.
“Thirty eight percent being referred to their GP for follow up. The club also donated $2,000 to V5 Lions district that administer the van.”
“Thanks to our management committee for their support and dedication. Thank you, especially Debbie, for the extraordinary effort she puts in to keep our club running smoothly and keeping everyone informed.
“And thank you George, for taking on the responsibility of treasurer.”
Don personally acknowledged Lion Graeme Hodgins and Lion Bill Monahan who had recently passed and thanked them for their contributions to the club as they will be sadly missed.
Don also recognized the Turban Project's 10-year milestone of creating and distributing 80,000 turbans. A presentation was given to Gerda Leiterman, who has participated in the project since its inception.
The Yarrawonga Lions were pleased to welcome a new member to the club during the evening's proceedings. John Kendrick, sponsored by John Weinert, was formally inducted by District Governor elect Paul Shortis.
At the conclusion of the installation of the board and new president Peter Ornsby, the official hand over of the gong and gavel took place.
Incoming president Peter addressed everyone stating that his theme for the upcoming year was ‘Community’.
“As the club moves from year to year it is important to continue to keep Yarrawonga Lions at the forefront of the community’s mind in this ever-changing environment we live in.”
To conclude Peter had the honour of presenting the esteemed Christ August Award to Yarrawonga Friends in Common, a highly deserving recipient.
Lions Incoming President Peter Ornsby, Liz Ornsby, Friends in Common members Ro Cilia and Lesley Shead joined by Lion outgoing president Don McPhee.
This locally based charity provides valuable support to cancer patients.
The recognition was well merited, and the organisation expressed genuine surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award.
