News
29 March, 2024
Lions have 40th
The Woodford Lions Club celebrated the club’s 40th birthday at the monthly meeting at the Woodford-based Lions Den, on Tuesday March 12.
Homemade chocolate cake was consumed, and new member Phil Helgesen was inducted during the meeting.
Other activities on the night included organising a donation for Woodford P-10 State School, organising a seniors morning tea, and discussing an early bird breakfast at Delaneys Creek State School.
With the Woodford Lions Club chartered on February 17 1984 and sponsored by the Deception Bay Lions Club at the time, there were 29 charter members including president Jeff Rowland, secretary Ken Baker and treasurer Trevor Phillips.
Following ups and downs with membership numbers during the ensuing 40 years, the number of members stood at 28 following the induction of the newest member.
Some of the current members said one change among the club in recent years was more women becoming involved.
One of the original charter members was Andrew Clews; the only one to remain with the club 40 years later.
Another current member, Derrick Sutton, came on board in 1985.
Andrew recalled the club having different locations for its home base, including the Woodford Hotel, Community Hall, Catholic Church and Anglican Church, before settling at the Lions Den about 15 years ago.
Andrew said the club always sought to raise funds to spend among the local community, although there were exceptions with cases such as the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.
“The fact is that it’s community, and you’re helping people in the community,” he said.